Allium, Leeks, Striesen ~ 450 seeds

Plant In: February - April, July - August 
Sun/Shade: Full sun
Planting Depth: 1/2 inch 
Space Seeds: 1 inch
Days to Germinate: 14 - 21 days
Days to Harvest: Approx. 110 

BEST TO START INDOORS 
Sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix, cover 1/2 inch deep, and firm soil over seeds. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant out. Seeds germinate sporadically over 2 to 3 weeks and grow slowly at first. Once seedlings are 3 or 4 inches tall, transplant 4 to 6 inches apart into well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. To get long-shanked leeks, plant seedlings down deep into the soil, so tips stick up 2 inches above ground level. 

TO START OUTDOORS 
Sow seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Space seeds 1 inch apart in rows 8 to 10 inches apart, or broadcast thinly for bed planting. Cover 1/2 inch deep and firm soil well over seeds; keep soil moist to ensure good germination. Thin as above.

GROWING NOTES 
Plant leeks in early spring and again in midsummer for fall and winter use. Long-growing leeks need a rich fertile soil, so add lots of compost or aged manure before planting, and fertilize several times over the growing season. Weed leeks carefully when young, and mulch to conserve soil moisture. 

HARVEST AND USE 
Harvest as slim babies to steam whole or quickly grill. Let some leeks mature to full size and dig as needed with a garden fork. Mature leeks store well in the ground during the winter months. Use in cooking like sweet onions, or as a tasty vegetable side dish.